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Elektra Records The late Wu-Tang Clan member Ol’ Dirty Bastard was one of hip-hop’s most lovable and interesting characters since his introduction to the world on the Wu-Tang’s landmark debut album, ‘Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers).’
But after the release of his 1995 debut album, ‘Return to the ’36 Chambers: The Dirty Version,’ ODB became a breakout star and a viable hit maker (hear Mariah Carey’s ‘Fantasy’ remix).
Returning from an extended hiatus due to his erratic personal life, he released his sophomore offering, ‘N—- Please,’ on Sept. 14, 1999. The collection debuted at No. 10 on the Billboard 200 chart after moving 93,000 copies in its first week of release. Three months later, the album was certified gold by the RIAA for having 500,000 copies shipped in the U.S.
Unfortunately, it would be the last studio album from ODB who tragically passed away from a drug overdose on Nov. 13, 2004.
Today marks the 15th anniversary of ‘N—- Please’ and we decided to give Dirt McGirt’s final LP a spin to determine if it still stands the test of time.
The Neptunes-produced 'Recognize' features comedian Chris Rock on the intro promptly telling listeners that "this ain't no commercial song." ODB then swiftly proves he's as zany and unpredictable as ever, despite his nearly five-year hiatus.
ODB follows up the leadoff track with the frenetic 'I Can't Wait.' Irv Gotti comes through in the clutch with a banger as he uses a sample of Mark Snow's 'Theme From T.J. Hooker.' ODB's nonsensical musings doesn't do the trick on this outing, leaving him below average already on his second album.
After randomly thanking Rick James for the inspiration behind this track, ODB delivers us a tune worthy of a hesitant two-step at least. Produced by the Neptunes, Russell Jones coyly croons about a 'cold blooded' lady that he has to get in his clutches.
4
'Got Your Money'
Featuring Kelis
The Neptunes produced the album's only hit single, 'Got Your Money.' On the track, Ol Dirty Bastard spits hilarious lines like, "I don't have not trouble with you f---ing me, but I have a little problem with you not f---ing me." Kelis' flawless guest vocals on the infectious hook make this track a certified classic and a signature song in the late rapper's catalog.
Big Baby Jesus sends out a PSA to the Caucasian culture vultures on the incendiary 'Rollin' With You.' Co-produced by Mr. Fingaz and Irv Gotti, the songs sees ODB giving the middle finger to what he feels are infiltrators of hip-hop culture without a f--- to give.
6
'Gettin' High'
Featuring Raison Da Zukeeper, 12 O Clock, La Da Darkman and Shorty S---stain
ODB gives a few of his Wu affiliates some air-time on the Dirty-less posse cut 'Gettin' High.' Featuring Raison Da Zukeeper, 12 O'Clock, La Da Darkman and Shorty S---stain, each rapper gets in a few quick jabs over the Buddah Monk-produced track. The end result is not too shabby and a minor highlight on the album.
7
'You Don't Want To F--- With Me'
Save for a few decent lines scattered throughout the track, The DL and Irv Gotti co-produced 'You Don't Want To F--- With Me' is a bit pedestrian. The hilarious hook is great to sing along to, but as a whole, this joint doesn't really do it for us.
Following the less than stellar previous song, ODB redeems himself on the album's standout title track. RZA contributes a sublime sounded bouyed with triumphant horns on the back end of the track, which prove tailor-made for Dirty's inebriated rhetoric.
'Dirt Dog' sees ODB spitting his usual random, stream-of-conscience banter on top of a beat by Buddah Monk. Nothing in particular stands out about this track by Ol' Dirty standards, relegating it to skip-button status and deemed forgettable.
Free exchange, no robbery is ODB's idea of a good time. On the bluntly titled 'I Want P----.' RZA's grungy sample of Blood, Sweat & Tears' 'You've Made Me So Very Happy' along with Ason's demands for vagina make for the perfect backdrop to a drunken night on the prowl.
11
'Good Morning Heartache'
Featuring Lil Mo
Ol' Dirty slows down the tempo and dedicates a song on the bluesy 'Good Morning Heartache.' Assisted by Lil Mo on the vocals, the pair create beautiful magic with this unexpected gem.
Things get festive with the Tru Master-produced song 'All In Together Now.' Between proclaiming himself a dalmatian and sending shouts to all colors and creeds, Big Baby Jesus delivers a rare cognizant verse on the jambori of a beat.
Listeners get an unexpected treat in 'N---- Please''s unlisted bonus track, 'Cracker Jack.' Produced by RZA, the beat is nothing short of indelible, with ODB's random slick talk and shenanigans playing as background chatter more than actual rhymes.
